Staff Reporter :
Fisheries and Livestock Minister Abdur Rahman announced on Thursday that there will be no shortage of sacrificial animals during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha festivities.
Addressing an inter-ministerial meeting on demand assessment, supply, and ensuring easy transportation of sacrificial animals at the conference room of the Department of Livestock, the Minister assured, “The government is fully prepared for the supply and management of sacrificial animals.”
Minister highlighted that, as in previous years, the demand for sacrificial animals has been meticulously evaluated. He revealed that there are approximately 2,277,973 more cattle available than the anticipated demand, ensuring an ample supply for the occasion.
“This year, the supply of sacrificial animals is expected to reach 129,803,367, which is 444,034 more than the previous year,” he stated, emphasizing the government’s efforts to meet the growing demand.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, in collaboration with other government departments, is actively working to facilitate a smooth and well-prepared celebration of Eid-ul-Azha.
The minister also highlighted the significant progress in ensuring self-sufficiency in cattle production, stating, “In the past, we had to import cattle from other countries during Eid-ul-Azha. But we are now able to meet our demand with local cattle.”
Addressing key concerns during the inter-ministerial meeting, Rahman emphasized the issuance of necessary instructions in bordering districts to prevent the illegal entry of cattle into the country, ensuring the integrity of the market.
“Under the dynamic leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, our livestock department officials, farmers, and entrepreneurs have brought revolutionary changes in the livestock sector, leading to a significant increase in production,” the minister affirmed, acknowledging the transformative strides in the sector.
Highlighting the importance of hygiene in cattle markets, the Livestock Minister stressed that sick animals would not be permitted for sale. Additionally, special measures will be implemented to prevent harassment of buyers and sellers, with adequate manpower deployed to maintain law and order in the markets.
Encouraging digital transactions for financial dealings, Minister Rahman advised traders and farmers to opt for smart payment methods over cash transactions.
Continuing from previous years, online platforms will facilitate the sale of sacrificial animals nationwide, easing the burden on both buyers and sellers.
Furthermore, each authorized cattle market will host a veterinary medical team to ensure the safety and suitability of sacrificial animals, while a dedicated control room (hotline-16358) at the Directorate of Livestock will address any emergent issues promptly.
The meeting, attended by Secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock Mohang Salim Uddin, Additional Secretary ATM Mustafa Kamal, and Director-General of the Directorate of Livestock Dr. Mohammad Rayazul Haque, underscored the government’s commitment to ensuring a successful and well-managed Eid-ul-Azha celebration.